Visit the Highland Lakes Region of Texas For Relaxing Adventures

Texas is known worldwide for big cities, big smiles, and big scenery, and a visit to the capital city of Austin is a must-do for any traveler to the region. If you are a permanent resident of a large city, you probably will go on vacation to get away from the daily grind of big-city life, and Texas features plenty of smaller, quaint regions that are ideal for nearby getaways.

Fortunately, where Austin’s city limits end, the scenic wonders of this state begin. These quick side trips to the Highland Lakes area will provide you will all of the relaxation that you crave, Texas style. There are six pristine bodies of water available for recreation, and there is a host of great tours and trails to experience.

Inks Lake

Inks Lake is located near the quaint town of Burnet and is one of the most popular spots amongst the series of the Highland Lakes. Inks Lake State Park boasts a family-friendly environment, and features stunning projections of prehistoric, gneiss rocks on the water’s banks. This preservation area is a fine example of the Texas Hill Country and its geological wonders.

Wilderness hikes and canoe tours permit stunning views of picturesque sights along the banks, where you can view the plethora of wildlife that call this region home. Locals love to fish here and frequent the lake often. Make sure to obtain a fishing permit if you plan to enjoy this sport within the public waters of the state of Texas.

Longhorn Caverns

Longhorn Caverns is a short drive away from Inks Lakes and is home to an extensive cave system. These underground tunnels are dated at a million years old, and they have a flavorful history that is shared during guided tours, which is certain to entertain you. This attraction is located within a state park, which offers lodging, a gift shop, food options, and full restroom facilities.

Texas Wine Country

Texas Hill Country wines are quite notable, and they are second in growth and popularity only to the Napa Valley amongst wines produced in the United States. Touring the vineyards in this region is so popular, that an officially designated path exists, known as the Texas Wine Trail. This grape producing state has minimal boundaries when it comes to excellent styles they produce, and there will be something to please even those with the most discerning tastes.

The lush scenery that exists along the rural paths through the region will provide ample photographic opportunities for you to capture these memorable moments. There are seasonal tours that join groups of individual together to taste the goods, but most vineyards offer tours and tastings daily.

Wildflowers in Bloom

In the springtime, this region of the state is transformed into a blanket of wildflowers, and the Texas Hill Country becomes scattered with fields of vibrant bluebonnets and fiery-hued Indian paintbrushes. These patches of floral glory are typically located along roadsides throughout the state and create ideal backgrounds for souvenir photos. The bluebonnet is the state flower due to its beauty; therefore, picking them is against the law, so resist the temptation to take one with you to press as a keepsake.

Texas is a national treasure, and this bold state offers quite a bit of accessible expanse of lands to be explored. The Austin area is an ideal location to serve as a hub for fabulous day trips to the less ventured portions of the state. The variety of attractions within the Highland Lakes area are second to none, and is the best place to see the finest of the state’s offerings.

Tracey Louis managed a lakeside bed and breakfast for a couple of years and loves to write about and promote the Highland Lakes area after coming to appreciate all it has to offer. For more information on upcoming events at The Highland Lakes, visitors can find the latest information on Facebook or on Twitter.